The Ottoman Guild System and the Features of the Clothing Characteristics Existed in The Illustrations of This Period

Abstract

One of the most significant elements of the social, cultural, and economic structure of the Ottoman Empire was the guild system, which was rooted in the traditions of Ahilik (the fraternity system of tradesmens). The Ottoman craftsmen were organized within a framework of specific regulations, strict rules, and traditions. One of the rules established by the guild, which contributed significantly to the social, economic, and military life of the period, concerned the attire of the guild members. The attire of craftsmen, charecterized by these rules, was parallel to the men's clothing of the Ottoman period. However, there were notable differences between the various guild groups, which allowed them to be visually distinguishable from each other. In this study, using a qualitative research model within the framework of descriptive research methods, written documents and period illustrations are analyzed. After classifying the visual materials and documents to represent different guild groups, those that demonstrated clothing differences and provided clear information are included in the scope of the study. This paper, which includes 15 different guilds (baker, herbalist, cook, barber, confectioner, fireman, liver seller, bagel seller, porter, coffee seller, water carrier, footman, potter, watchman, and boatman), used in miniatures, engravings, postcards, paintings, and photographs as visual sources. The conclusion of this study claims that the ergonomic conditions were considered in shaping the craftsmen's clothing, layered clothing features were maintained, and both the şedd (belt) and şalvar (baggy trousers) were symbolic and functional, forming an integral part of the guild attire. The orginality of this study is that it is significant in terms of transferring traditional clothing styles into future generations as part of cultural sustainability and provides scientific outcomes for future field studies.